Radial-mode abrasive waterjet turning of short carbon–fiber-reinforced plastics

Abstract

ABSTRACTAn experimental study is carried out for single-pass radial-mode abrasive waterjet (AWJ) turning of a short carbon–fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) specimen to understand the machining process and the effects of major process variables (feed speed, water pressure, abrasive mass flow rate, nozzle tilt angle, and rotational surface speed) on the major machining performance measures, that is, the depth of cut, material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness. It is found that high water pressure, normal nozzle impact angle and high rotational speed with suitably selected feed speed and abrasive flow rate may be selected to achieve a high MRR without significantly compromising the surface roughness. Mathematical models for the three cutting performance measures are then developed for use in process control.